Difference Between Service Dogs and Assistance Dogs, Are they legit?

Can I ask if it’s a REAL Service Dog?

The Difference Between Service Dogs and Assistance Dogs

More and more, we are seeing service dogs in public places where they’ve never been allowed before — restaurants, libraries, airplanes, schools, hospitals … But how do we know if they’re truly allowed to be in that establishment? What does it take for a business owner to know the difference between Service Dogs and Assistance Dogs, or whether they’re certified to enter or not? How does one know that it’s not just someone’s pet and they’re telling you falsities to be able to bring their dog along?

Kinjeng Submiter, Flickr

Certainly, there are many legitimate service dogs, assistance dogs, and therapy dogs that perform great services for their owners. Some of these dogs have been trained and are legally certified, with privileges above other dogs, while some therapy and assistance dogs require no training or certification, and don’t have the same privileges.

As a result, there has also been an increase in confusion about these animals which has sparked some controversy. This can be distressing to those who depend on them to help cope with everyday life. Take a look at the infographic below. It basically outlines the differences between service dogs, therapy dogs, and emotional support animals.

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Born in Nova Scotia, I moved to the United States 20+ years ago.I am a dedicated lover of animals and fight for their rights and protection.I love people too, of course, and enjoy meeting folks from all walks of life.I enjoy philosophical discussion, laughing, and really odd ball stuff.I hope you enjoy my site.Leave me a comment to let me know you were here!Peace out.

6 thoughts on “Difference Between Service Dogs and Assistance Dogs, Are they legit?”

Great infographic – really helps clear up any misconceptions about these three categories. I’ve had conversations with people in public places with their service dogs, and they’ve always thanked me when I’ve asked them about their dog and how their day is going. I don’t think its common knowledge that these dogs are always on the alert for issues with the people they’re assisting and that simply petting the dog could cause harm by distracting them from their job. Thanks for getting the word out with your article! xoxoxo

Thank you for your nice comment, Dale. I, too, have stopped and talked to people with service dogs, and they’ve always got an interesting story to tell about themselves and about their dog. Oh, and thank YOU for the animal Reiki you do. I used to do that too, years ago. You’re doing a great service. Ciao for now.

Your story is one of a number of stories about animals in service that I’ve read lately – a few other stories were about animals assisting autistic children. It’s so wonderful to witness animals providing healing in those ways. My life is made full with animals 🙂 and I’m honored to work with them. Cheers!

Personally, I think that knowing your intention well before adopting a dog will be better for both the owner and the dog. I think some of us don’t even deserve service dogs and assistance dogs, but well, they are the angels here.Lan Hoang recently posted…Can my dog go vegan?

Jeanne Melanson is just an ordinary gal from Nova Scotia, now living in Michigan.

Her animal family has included 13 Alpine Goats, 40 Chickens, 20 Turkeys, 3 Vietnamese Pot Bellied Pigs, a number of Turtles, 2 Raccoons, 1 Opossum , her share of Cats and Dogs, and a Bearded Dragon named Shirley.